My Nonprofit Reviews

I am a retired Naval Officer with 22 years of service. I volunteer for the Travis Mills Foundation in support of recalibrated veterans and their families. The Foundation is one of a small handful of veteran service organizations that help the whole family take their next steps in their journey. The Travis Mills Foundation retreat center offers an all expense paid, no barriers and all inclusive vacation in Maine where they participate in adaptive activities, bond with other veteran families, and enjoy rest and relaxation in Maine’s outdoors.


I have two experiences that highlight what can happen here for families. First, while out on my boat, I was in the vicinity of two tandem kayaker's , father and son. The two boys (9 or 10 years old) were having a conversation:
"My Dad just got a new set of blades and he can outrun a cheetah!"
the second boy replies: "That's cool, but my Dad just got a new set of swim legs and he can out swim Bruce (in Finding Nemo)!"
Where else can two little boys have this conversation?

The second experience was overhearing a conversation between a staff member and a young girl about her experience at the Travis Mills Foundation Retreat. Her response:
"It is better than Disney World!"

To watch the families arrive at the retreat, usually a little timid, but excited and then five short days later, departing with tears in their eyes as they say good bye to their new friends is inspirational.

The retreat serves 100's of families every year, with over 700 Volunteers from 34 states helping to make it all happen.